A new dementia hub could open on the Isle of Wight. It is being proposed by the Isle of Wight council at the Parklands site in Cowes, so services on the Island can work together in an integrated way.
The hub will be developed by The Alzheimer Cafe IW and tie in to help fulfil commitments in the authority’s dementia strategy, which launched last year.
Approval for 25-year lease sought
The Isle of Wight council’s cabinet is being asked to approve a 25-year lease of Parklands to the charity in May, so long as money has been set aside for refurbishment works.
2,655 residents living with dementia
Last year, it was estimated 2,655 people over the age of 65 on the Island were living with dementia, which could increase to 3,920 by 2030 according to The Alzheimer Society.
Aiming to make a ‘real difference’ to Islanders
The council’s strategy aims to make a ‘real difference’ to Islanders with dementia and their families, helping support people to live full, independent and active lives.
Preventing dementia
It sets targets about helping to prevent dementia where possible by living a healthy lifestyle; getting a timely and accurate diagnosis; and supporting patients and carers with access to safe and high-quality health and social care.
Need for a hub
One comment submitted while the strategy was being created was that the Island “needed a dementia hub where people can go for support, information, activity sessions, company, stimulation and friendship”.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
